Do you use a moisturizer or sunscreen first?
DO YOU USE A MOISTURIZER OR SUNSCREEN FIRST?
The order in which you layer skincare matters especially when it comes to the question, "do you use moisturizer or sunscreen first?" Let's get to know sunscreens and moisturizers better and how to layer them just right, so you get the most out of your skincare routine every day.
What are the different types of sunscreen?
There are two types of sunscreen to choose from; mineral and chemical.
Mineral options, often called physical sunscreens, are formulated with natural sun blockers titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These active ingredients sit on the skin's surface, and protect it by deflecting the harmful UV rays away from the skin. Tammy recommends using tried and true zinc oxide sunscreens for immediate protection, offering a gentle yet effective barrier from the moment of application.
On the other hand, chemical sunscreens sink into the skin and provide protection by absorbing, rather than deflecting, UV rays. Once absorbed, chemical sunscreen converts the sun's damaging rays into heat, which is then released from the skin.
However, the active ingredients in chemical sunscreens can unsettle sensitive skin, prompting irritation for some. A common chemical in these formulas, oxybenzone, has also raised environmental concern for its impact on coral reefs and marine life when washed into the waterways.
Tammy favors mineral-based options; especially zinc-oxide based blends. They offer dependable protection without being absorbed by the skin.
While sunscreen plays an essential role in the defense against the damaging effects of UV rays, even the most gentle sunscreens, including mineral-based formulations, can impact the skin's hydration levels by drawing moisture away from the skin.
How to use sunscreen correctly?
Select SPF 30 or SPF 50 for comprehensive broad-spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB rays. Broad-spectrum SPF protection offers full defense, safeguarding your skin from early signs of aging and skin cancer.
To apply, sunscreen should follow moisturizer and be the last step in your routine.
If the day promises time at the beach or in the pool or a workout, a water-resistant formula is best and be mindful to reapply, keeping protection in place despite dips or drips.
Complement your sunscreen with sun protective clothing: long-sleeved tops, sarongs, big sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats, or even an elegant parasol, for a physical barrier against the rays. You’ll step into the sunlight with confidence, fully shielded and beautifully protected. Seek solace in the shade, too, especially during the peak intensity of the sun between 10 am and 4 pm.
What do you need in a moisturizer?
Choosing the right daytime moisturizer is about finding that perfect blend that goes beyond sealing in hydration—it's about boosting your skin’s own sun defense, drawing on the innate protective qualities of the plants themselves.
In creating her selection of moisturizing crèmes Tammy has selected botanical ingredients celebrated for their natural ability to defend against UV rays. Our formulas are rich with the gentle care of plant butters, the deep nourishment of oils, and the standout protection offered by natural lotus leaf wax. Together, they help our plant-based skincare products work in harmony with your sunscreen, amplifying your skin’s protection against the sun while keeping it deeply hydrated, nourished with essential nutrients and full of life.
Depending on your skin type and needs, Luminous Morning Creme, Intensive Repair Balm or Spontaneous Recovery creme will pair beautifully with your choice of mineral sunscreen.
OILY & COMBINATION SKIN
Blended with citrus essences, Luminous Morning Creme has a featherweight texture and an uplifting, invigorating effect that makes it just right for morning time.
DRY & DEHYDRATED SKIN
Dehydrated and dry skin types are soothed and hydrated with the supportive combination of Intensive Repair Balm, which is blended with soothing Helichrysum and restorative White Lily, in the daytime.
SENSITIVE & MATURE SKIN
Sensitive skin, often disturbed with redness and irritation, benefits from Spontaneous Recovery Crème's protective qualities in the morning.
What comes first: sunscreen or moisturizer?
To prepare for a day outdoors, start by cleansing, applying your favorite serum and follow with your moisturizing crème. Tammy then recommends that you wait 30 minutes before applying sunscreen.
This allows the skin to absorb all the beautiful benefits of your moisturizing crème completely to help counter the dehydrating effects of sunscreen.
If you reverse this step, applying sunscreen before you moisturize, it can hinder the moisturizer's ability to penetrate and hydrate the skin effectively. Mineral sunscreen works to create a barrier on the skin's surface, which might prevent the moisturizer from reaching the deeper layers where its nourishment is most needed. This could leave your skin feeling less hydrated and potentially diminish the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine.
Always moisturize first to ensure your skin is fully hydrated, then apply sunscreen to shield against the sun's rays as you step out to embrace the day.
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